NATIONAL ARTIST – Mike’s been called “National Artist in waiting,” which he frowns upon. Not interested. A few years back, he was supposed to receive the Natatanging Gawad Urian. He angrily rejected the prestigious award, then saying he was already retired from moviemaking.

Mike’s unpredictable. Perhaps by this time he’s already amenable to be named National Artist and be in the company of Gerry de Leon, Bert Avellana, Eddie Romero, Manuel Conde, Lino Brocka, and Ishmael Bernal.

•

NOT THE LAST – And, yes, hopefully “Citizen Jake” isn’t his last movie.

Last year, Mike offered Vilma Santos an epic on the Buencamino-De Leon clan, saying it was his swan song. But tight schedule didn’t allow Vilma to accept Mike’s offer. She was then newly elected congresswoman of Lipa City.

He opted to direct “Citizen Jake,” said to be his last.

Please reconsider, Mike! Why not also do the Vilma movie…and make it your real swan song?